From May, 2015

Imagine a world of acceptance for persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Imagine a world that embraces the human dignity and human rights of every person, couple and family irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity. This world is possible.

In 2004, a group of such visionaries created IDAHO, the International Day Against Homophobia on May 17, to draw the attention of policymakers, opinion leaders, social movements, the media and the public to the reality of violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTI persons around the world. Now understood at IDAHOT, May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.

While it is a day to draw attention to the unnecessary fear of those who are different, of those who are our sisters and brothers, our mothers, fathers, friends and part of all of our families, schools, villages, communities and nations; it is also a worldwide celebration of persons of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

IDAHOT is now celebrated in over 130 countries including 37 where homosexuality is illegal and criminalized. We are grateful for those visionaries who came together in 2004 to make May 17 a day of education, advocacy and celebration. Every event, celebration, blog post and sharing by social media is part of the local and global work that will change the world to this place for acceptance and embrace of LGBTI people and their families. Read more

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Nepal on April 25. An estimated 7,250 deaths, 14,100 persons injured and 3 million people needing food assistance according to the United Nations. The effects of the earthquake have been devastating for the people and country of Nepal including our LGBT sisters and brothers. The Blue Diamond Society, Nepal’s LGBT organization is working tirelessly to provide water, food, medicine and shelter for those who have lost their homes and for those who are denied safe space in relief camps. Among the most vulnerable are persons who are living with HIV and transgender persons.

Sunil Pant, a leading LGBT activist with the Blue Diamond Society who was the first openly gay member of Nepal’s Parliament, has sent an appeal to LGBT organizations around the world asking for us to contribute to the Blue Diamond Society’s relief efforts. He reports that the immediate needs are tents, clothes, blankets, umbrellas, water, food and medicine, fuel for the generator and the Blue Diamond Society’s vehicle for about 4 to 6 months. Read more